ARSENAL and Liverpool have been joined by Aston Villa, Everton and Sunderland in expressing an interest in signing James Milner if he leaves Manchester City this summer.

Milner is entering the final year of his contract with the Citizens and is keen to see out his deal.

But reports suggest that the 28-year-old would like assurances about the amount of playing time he will receive next season.

Milner started just 12 league games as City won the title last season and would like to feature more regularly next term.

While it is thought that the former Leeds man is unlikely to request a move even if he is not given the assurances he desires, a host of clubs are monitoring the situation closely.

James Milner wants guarantees of greater playing time

Indeed, it is suggested that both Arsenal and Liverpool have made discrete enquiries about Milner's availability while Villa, Everton and Sunderland would also all love to bring the England international on board.

Milner - who cost City £26m when he signed from Villa in 2010 - finds himself in the difficult position of possibly having to accept a pay cut to ensure he gets the increase in playing time he is looking for.

But it is thought that making a contribution on the pitch remains a higher priority for Milner than money as he enters his peak years as a footballer.

It now remains to be seen whether City will opt to move Milner on this summer if they can't promise him more football rather than risk losing him for nothing in 12 month's time.